The law would prevent licensed professionals such as therapists from attempting to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

The City Commission unanimously approved the measure during a first vote Tuesday night. It will require another round of voting for the measure to take effect.

Rachel Needle, a licensed psychologist who practices in Palm Beach County, said the new rule would help protect youth.

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Some South Florida cities, along with others across the nation, have done away with old-fashioned, coin only “lollipop” meters for devices that are much more clever — 'smart meters'.

Some South Florida cities, along with others across the nation, have done away with old-fashioned, coin only “lollipop” meters for devices that are much more clever — 'smart meters'.

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Some South Florida cities, along with others across the nation, have done away with old-fashioned, coin only “lollipop” meters for devices that are much more clever — 'smart meters'.

Some South Florida cities, along with others across the nation, have done away with old-fashioned, coin only “lollipop” meters for devices that are much more clever — 'smart meters'.

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Captain David Smith, who has been with the Sheriff’s Office for over 25 years, was arrested on suspicion of DUI after blowing a .196 and a .202 in a breathalyzer test and admitting to drinking six beers and taking a Xanax pill, stated the arrest report.

Captain David Smith, who has been with the Sheriff’s Office for over 25 years, was arrested on suspicion of DUI after blowing a .196 and a .202 in a breathalyzer test and admitting to drinking six beers and taking a Xanax pill, stated the arrest report.

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A 3-year-old boy is in the hospital after being hit by gunfire in Mangonia Park.

A 3-year-old boy is in the hospital after being hit by gunfire in Mangonia Park.

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Deputy Adam Godbey is charged with child pornography after investigators found images and videos of child pornography at his home.

Deputy Adam Godbey is charged with child pornography after investigators found images and videos of child pornography at his home.

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Does Palm Beach County need a nude beach? Officials say no.

Does Palm Beach County need a nude beach? Officials say no.

“Research has found that efforts and so-called therapies aimed at changing one’s identity or sexual orientation can lead to a number of health issues in a minor,” Needle said.

Nearly a dozen cities in Florida have passed similar legislation, including West Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Wilton Manors and Miami, according to the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, which has pushed for the laws.

Delray took steps toward passing the law despite doubts from City Attorney R. Max Lohman. No one is practicing conversion therapy on minors in Delray, who would be affected by the law, Lohman said.

The law would not apply to members of the church or anyone else practicing conversion therapy as part of their religion — unless they were licensed by the state. During a city meeting in March, Lohman said the law would be nearly impossible to enforce and is mostly ceremonial.

Mayor Cary Glickstein and commissioner Mitch Katz said they wanted to see the ordinance, regardless.

Glickstein said it would demonstrate where Delray Beach stands on LGBTQ issues. “I think the statement is best made in the form of an ordinance,” he said in March.